Health Info

Primary Polycythemia

(Polycythemia Vera [PCV]; Polycythemia Rubra Vera [PRV]; Erythremia)

Definition

Polycythemia is a condition that occurs when the bone marrow produces an abnormal and excessive amount of red blood cells and platelets in the blood. The abnormal increase of red blood cells in the blood can cause the blood to thicken and clot.

There are several forms of polycythemia—primary polycythemia, secondary polycythemia, and stress polycythemia. Each form has its own set of causes and risk factors.

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Diagnosis

Your physician will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. You may also be referred to a doctor called a hematologist who specializes in blood diseases and disorders. The hematologist will perform a tests.

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:

Phlebotomy

Phlebotomy is a technique that requires a person to periodically have blood removed from a vein to decrease the overall total proportion of red blood cells in the body. The frequency of the treatment is based on how quickly a person’s bone marrow produces an excessive amount of red blood cells.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy
is a group of drugs that can be given by mouth, by injection, or through a tube that is inserted into a duct or blood vessel to slow the rapid development of red blood cells in the bone marrow.

Aspirin

You may be given aspirin to reduce your risk of blood clots and spleen removal.

Prevention

There are no known preventative measures that will reduce your chances of getting primary polycythemia; the condition is not contagious.

There is no cure, but recent research suggests that individuals who have primary polycythemia may significantly increase their overall life expectancy by seeking treatment right away.

RESOURCES

American Society of Hematology
http://www.hematology.org

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.